Deaths of Despair

In a remote corner of Maine that locals call ‘The Forgotten County,’ the pandemic triggered isolation, economic struggles and a surge in suicides and overdoses. Hindered by a lack of mental health resources, communities and schools in Washington County banded together to find help for those with anxiety, depression and despair. 

The Maine Monitor chronicled the heartbreaking losses in a county that sought solace and solutions to prevent more tragedies.

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Rhonda McIver applies a salve to the legs of her disabled husband, who is sitting on the sofa.

Barely hanging on

Her grandson took his life. Then her daughter overdosed. “When people are crying for help, you’ve got to take them seriously,” said Rhonda McIver.
A young Washington County student holds a memoriam photo of classmate William McIver, who died by suicide, while standing in the hallway in front of a mental health resource display.

A need for awareness

In a county with few mental health resources, community members are rallying to increase peer support and education around suicide.